Stephanie chose to focus on the topic of the professional development she is required/provided in South America, and her professional goals.
They have a professional development committee that has to meet monthly to discuss the school’s professional development plan and arrange different meetings for the faculty to participate in together. It is very difficult being so far out of range of the “normal” world in terms of resources they could use or seminars they could attend. They use webinars mainly, as long as they are affordable and seem relevant to what is needed to learn. Every 3 months or so is when the faculty is required to meet together as a whole and watch and discuss the seminar. It basically refreshes and encourages them to be the best teachers possible. Professional Development is really important her because she feels like in that particular situation, teachers really soak up any help, advice, support, and encouragement one can offer—even if it’s through a computer.
Her professional goals
To reach children and open them up.
To follow where God leads me because that’s the safest and best place to be.
To help people.
To shine light into a dark world.
To encourage children and help them to see and believe in their importance.
It has been a wonderful opportunity to learn about Stephanie's life as a teacher in South America! It is so encouraging.
Jo Ann: What content is available for educators in the web seminar that helps educators maximize their professional development?
ReplyDeleteShe mentioned that they search for any webinars they may find helpful for them as long as they are not to expensive. They vary from guided reading strategies, classroom management, ect. She said that if they have an area they, as a group, feel they need to focus then they will search for a webinar that meets that need.
ReplyDeleteHer goals are inspiring!! It makes me want to be that strong when I start working with children. Webinars are becoming a very popular way of teaching in many fields. I know my current field the medical field that is how our directors teach and they are very productive. Stephanie seems like a great teacher and someone with a lot to teach other educators and children.
ReplyDeleteJo: I also thought her goals were inspiring. I also think Professional development days are great and fun to learn about new things that relate to children, we have those at my job currently in March.
ReplyDeleteJo,
ReplyDeleteProfessional development days sound like a great resource and teaching tool. I have yet to experience a professional day because our county had to cut those this year due to funding. Thank you for sharing with us more about Stephanie